Pineapple Cranberry Dump Cake – The Best Comfort Dessert Recipe

If you’re craving a cranberry pineapple dessert that’s quick, easy, and family-friendly, this Pineapple Cranberry Dump Cake is perfect. Inspired by the comfort and simplicity of old-fashioned pineapple cranberry dump cake recipes, it’s a one-pot treat that’s customizable and balanced—ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. With sweet pineapple and tart cranberries, this easy pineapple cranberry dump cake recipe brings the taste of home to your table in minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pineapple cranberry dump cake is the ultimate cranberry pineapple dessert for busy cooks who still want homemade comfort. Its simplicity makes it an easy pineapple cranberry dump cake recipe that anyone can make, even on hectic weeknights. With the sweet juiciness of pineapple and the tart zing of cranberries, this old-fashioned pineapple cranberry dump cake delivers a flavor combination that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or casual dinners, this pineapple cranberry dump cake with sour cream is fully customizable—you can add nuts, swap fruits, or even try a vegan twist. The one-pan method keeps cleanup minimal, making this easy pineapple cranberry dessert a favorite for home bakers. Whether you’re looking for a taste of home cranberry upside-down cake experience or a quick, show-stopping treat, this pineapple cranberry dump cake recipe brings comfort, flavor, and ease to every table.

Ingredients for This Recipe

The magic of this pineapple cranberry dump cake starts with simple, easy-to-find ingredients that come together to create a cranberry pineapple dessert bursting with flavor. Juicy pineapple provides natural sweetness, while fresh or frozen cranberries add a tart contrast that makes every bite pop. A box of yellow or white cake mix forms the soft, golden base, and melted butter ensures a rich, buttery texture. Optional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the warm, comforting flavor, while whipped cream or vanilla ice cream make the finished pineapple cranberry dump cake recipe even more indulgent. This combination of ingredients makes the recipe versatile, approachable, and perfect for quick family desserts or holiday treats.

ingredients for pineapple cranberry dump cake
Pineapple Cranberry Dump Cake – The Best Comfort Dessert Recipe 13

🛒 Ingredients:

  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, drained slightly
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 box yellow or white cake mix (15 oz)
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg
  • Optional: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving

How to Make This Recipe

Making this pineapple cranberry dump cake is as simple as it is satisfying. This easy pineapple cranberry dump cake recipe combines the sweet pineapple and tart cranberries into a moist, flavorful dessert with minimal effort. The cake mix absorbs the juices, creating a soft, golden topping, while melted butter ensures rich texture throughout. Optional cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth, and serving it with whipped cream or ice cream transforms it into a decadent cranberry pineapple dessert perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making a quick family dessert or an old-fashioned pineapple cranberry dump cake for a holiday gathering, these steps make it effortless to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

📝 Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Spread the drained pineapple evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish.
  3. Sprinkle cranberries evenly over the pineapple.
  4. Evenly distribute the dry cake mix over the fruit layer.
  5. Drizzle melted butter evenly on top of the cake mix.
  6. Optionally, sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg over the top for extra flavor.
  7. Bake 45–50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  8. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
baking pineapple cranberry dump cake
Pineapple Cranberry Dump Cake – The Best Comfort Dessert Recipe 14

Expert Cooking Tips

To get the best results from your pineapple cranberry dump cake, understanding the ingredients is key. The sweet pineapple and tart cranberries create a perfect balance, while the cake mix absorbs the fruit juices for a moist, flavorful cranberry pineapple dessert. Melted butter adds richness and helps the topping crisp beautifully. Optional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg enhance depth, and serving with whipped cream or ice cream elevates the dessert. Following these expert tips ensures your easy pineapple cranberry dump cake recipe turns out perfectly every time.

💡 Tips:

  • Drain the pineapple slightly to prevent a soggy cake while keeping it juicy.
  • Use fresh or frozen cranberries; frozen works well if fresh aren’t in season.
  • Distribute cake mix evenly over fruit for consistent baking.
  • Drizzle butter slowly to ensure all cake mix is moistened.
  • Add optional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to intensify flavor.
  • Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for the ultimate old-fashioned pineapple cranberry dump cake experience.
sliced pineapple cranberry dump cake with toppings
Pineapple Cranberry Dump Cake – The Best Comfort Dessert Recipe 15

FAQs

Q1: What is the biggest mistake to avoid when making a pineapple cranberry dump cake?

The most common mistake is not evenly distributing the cake mix and butter over the fruit layers. Uneven coverage can lead to dry spots or undercooked areas in your easy pineapple cranberry dump cake recipe.

Q2: What does mixing pineapple and cranberry juice do?

Combining pineapple and cranberry juice creates a natural balance of sweetness and tartness, giving this cranberry pineapple dessert its signature flavor. It also keeps the cake moist while baking.

Q3: Why do they call it a dump cake?

It’s called a dump cake because you “dump” the fruit, cake mix, and butter directly into the pan—no mixing bowl required! This makes the old-fashioned pineapple cranberry dump cake incredibly simple to prepare.

Q4: What is a pineapple dump cake?

A pineapple dump cake is a quick, one-pan dessert that layers pineapple, cake mix, and butter to create a soft, flavorful cake. This version, with cranberries added, is a delicious pineapple cranberry dump cake with sour cream option.

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This pineapple cranberry dump cake is the perfect cranberry pineapple dessert for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or holiday celebrations. With its sweet pineapple, tart cranberries, and buttery cake topping, this easy pineapple cranberry dump cake recipe delivers a comforting, nostalgic flavor that everyone will love. Whether you’re making an old-fashioned pineapple cranberry dump cake or trying a variation with sour cream, this dessert is simple, versatile, and guaranteed to bring the taste of home to your table. Don’t forget to serve it warm with whipped cream or ice cream for a truly indulgent pineapple cranberry dump cake with sour cream experience.

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pineapple cranberry dump cake served hot

Pineapple Cranberry Dump Cake


  • Author: Savannah
  • Total Time: 50–55 minutes
  • Yield: 1012 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Sweet pineapple pairs beautifully with tart cranberries under a golden, buttery cake topping. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for festive gatherings, potlucks, or cozy family dinners.


Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients:

  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, drained slightly

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries

  • 1 box yellow or white cake mix (15 oz)

  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

  • Optional: ½ teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg

  • Optional: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving


Instructions

📝 Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  2. Fruit Layer: Spread pineapple evenly in the dish, then scatter cranberries on top. Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg if using.

  3. Cake Layer: Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the fruit. Do not stir.

  4. Top with Butter: Drizzle melted butter evenly over the cake mix.

  5. Bake: Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes until the topping is golden and the fruit is bubbly.

  6. Cool & Serve: Let cool slightly. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Notes

  • Frozen cranberries can be used without thawing; increase baking time slightly if needed.
  • For a sweeter version, sprinkle 1–2 tablespoons of sugar over the cranberries before adding cake mix.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 2–3 days; reheat gently before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

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